Check if you need planning permission for an extension or alteration to your house

Check if you need planning permission for an extension or alteration to your house

Householder permitted development

Some building works don’t need formal planning permission, these are classed as ‘permitted development’ and are usually small things such as conservatories, replacement windows, solar panels and signs.

However, some works can't be classed as permitted development if:

your property is a flat or maisonette or commercial premises;

you are altering a Listed Building or a building in a Conservation Area.

There are other constraints on development to consider, for example if a tree on the property is protected, or there's a risk of flooding etc.

Check for constraints on your property

You can carry out a property search in our online planning application system to find what constraints apply to your property.Look for details on the 'constraints' tab in the system.

Or, you can use the Planning Portal's interactive house service find out more about the types of work that do and don't need planning permission.

Get advice

It's best to have your proposals checked by us

For peace of mind, you can check if your proposals are permitted development. Use our enquiry form to apply for written confirmation. However, please be aware that this is not a formal confirmation.

Apply for a Lawful Development Certificate

The certificate is a legal document and there is a charge for the application.

We aim to determine applications within 8 to 16 weeks (depending on the application type).

Discuss your proposals

Visit or call a duty officer to discuss proposals about your house - check for available times on our duty officer page.

When permitted development rights have been removed

In some cases permitted development rights may be removed by issuing what is known as an Article 4 Direction. These are usually removed on the original, or any later planning permission for the property.

This means a planning application will be needed for development which normally doesn't need one.

Before undertaking any development you should check if any restrictions on permitted development have been made.

Use the link at the top of the page to check your property in our online planning application systemOr discuss with a duty officer.

Building regulations

Glossary of planning terms

The Planning Portal Glossary is a summary of phrases relating to land use and planning matters in England only. It covers a variety of issues ranging from new development and regeneration, to conservation and environmental protection.